By Morgan Bryce
Associate Editor

Construction of the new La Quinta Inn and Suites location at Capps Landing is expected to be finished later this week.
According to Auburn Hospitality Inc. President Vic Patel, the four-story structure will possess a total of 82 rooms, fitness center, pool, entire pet-friendly floor, spacious public area, bar with locally sourced beverages and conference room that will accommodate up to 75 people.
Built in the company’s new wave of “Del Sol”-themed inns, Patel added that it will be the first of its kind in Alabama.
“This is La Quinta’s prototype, and every single one they construct in the next few years will look just like this,” Patel said.
Another unique aspect of the building is its Auburn-themed decor, with orange and blue trim present throughout the building and murals on each floor dedicated to the school’s iconic mascots and places.
This will be the sixth hotel now under Patel’s company, which currently has locations in Auburn, Columbus and Phenix City in addition to Opelika.
“This area, if you look from LaGrange all the way to Montgomery, there’s not a brand new La Quinta out there. They’re all old locations out there,” Patel said. “We thought it was a good fit for this market, and it is a pet-friendly hotel, which many aren’t able to say. The design of the building, as well as the ability to customize like what we’re doing with our Auburn theme, were other big factors in our decision to go with (La Quinta).”
Patel said the inn’s official opening date is set for July 12, but a joint grand opening ceremony with the Opelika Chamber of Commerce will be held during the month of August.
For more information, visit www.lq.com. The inn is located at 3155 Capps Way next to Freddy’s Frozen Custard and Steakburgers in Capps Landing.